When people think of the 2012 Memorial Cup final between the Shawinigan Cataractes and the London Knights, two things will probably come to mind. One image is Anton Zlobin’s 2-1 overtime tournament-clinching goal; the other is the perpetual, interminable sound of a set of seemingly inexhaustible air horns.

Zlobin was the hero of the night, scoring both of Shawinigan’s goals while Ryan Rupert collected London’s only tally.

The U.S. version of the NHL Network carried the game, which was great for hockey fans who wanted a peek at prospects such as Brandon Gormley, Michael Houser, Jarred Tinordi, Vladislav Namestnikov, Austin Watson, Kirill Kabanov and so on.

Unfortunately, it also broadcasted that constant stream of crowd noise, providing many hockey fans with a far-from-fantastic first impression of Shawinigan, Quebec. (The empty, awful tone of those air horns has been cemented in my brain.) I cannot help but ask: what’s the allure of endlessly hammering away on one? The constant sound doesn’t indicate approval or take the place of a jeer; instead, it reminds one of a child who continuously asks “Why?” in a conversation.

Perhaps those questions are better left unanswered, but both teams deserve credit for their efforts. Did any players – highly touted, comparatively obscure or anywhere in between – stand out to you tonight? Share your rave reviews or worrisome critiques in the comments.

Agreed, Gormley is probably the most NHL ready. He’s head strong and has great game management, but need to turn up the grit… sharpen his edge. I was impressed in the tournament by Lazar, Reinehart, Chaput and Maatta. Hard to rise above when you are surrounded by such talent.

It was a great game, but sweet jesus. I have to agree with him completely about those air horns. They made the game nearly unwatchable for me because I wanted to hear what was going on, but the air horns just NEVER STOPPED.

It was a good game, and I hope whoever had an air horn in hand after the game got smacked repeatedly.

Was not fortunate enough to see the series, but could Kirill Kabanov be one of those money players? Last two seasons he’s had lackluster regular seasons and then produced more than a point a game in the playoffs.